The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Usman Nuhu Sharubutu, has called on the President-elect, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to condemn the attacks on political opponents by supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

That, he said, would ensure that the country went through a smooth and peaceful transition period to usher in the President-elect’s administration to kick-start the development agenda of the NPP towards progress and prosperity.

Speaking through his spokesperson, Sheikh Aremeyaw, the Chief Imam said: “Concern has been expressed by the President over certain events that are taking place across the country and in the interest of the peace of our country we would want to add our voice that if they are truly going on, then probably your voice could also help ameliorate the problem so we can have a very peaceful transition in the interest of our country.”

Sheikh Sharubutu said this when he paid a visit to the private residence of Nana Akufo-Addo to congratulate him on his victory at the 2016 presidential poll.

The Chief Imam was accompanied by the leadership of the National Council of Muslim Chiefs, the Al-Asuna, the Tijaniyya Muslim Council, the Shia Community and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

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Also present was the incoming Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and other leading members of the NPP.

Victory outcome of determination

Most certainly, Sheikh Sharubutu said, Nana Akufo-Addo’s victory in this year’s elections did not come out of nothing; “it was the outcome of strong determination, faith in God, exceptional dedication, tenacity of purpose, hard work and good planning throughout the long period of his struggle to assume the leadership of the nation.

“For the past years, we have been observing with admiration your exceptional courage and never-give-up spirit in the face of an extraordinarily fierce political contest,” he added.

“It is important to place on record that your call for calm to your supporters prior to the declaration of the results and the conciliatory tone of your victory speech have both given ample testimony of your commitment to democracy and the rule of law and are, therefore, worthy of commendation,” the Chief Imam said.

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He said Nana Akufo-Addo’s victory signalled another milestone in our national journey towards an enduring democracy.

Prayers and support

Sheikh Sharubutu assured Nana Akufo-Addo and the NPP of his continued support and prayers throughout his tenure as President, saying: “We wish you the guidance, support and blessings of Almighty Allah in your quest to lead the country to progress and prosperity.”

Nana Akufo-Addo, for his part, thanked the Chief Imam for his prayers for him and the country.

He told Sheikh Sharubutu that he would fulfil all the promises he had made to Ghanaians.